Wales rugby team line up for the national anthem (Image: Getty Images)

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During his time in charge, Scotland reached the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals in South Africa and posted their first away victory over France in 26 years.

Former Lions manager Ian McGeechan said: "Dougie had a deep understanding of the game and was tactically very aware. I will never forget him standing on (Wales player) Gareth Edwards' foot to distract him whilst trying to put the ball into the scrum, an approach which stopped Wales playing and we ultimately won the game."

He added: "On and off the field he was a great friend and companion. I have memories I will always cherish and be very thankful for knowing Dougie."

Hadleigh Parkes linked with Japan move

Wales star Hadleigh Parkes has become a prime target of big-spending Japanese club Kobe Steelers, according to reports.

The Steelers' star-studded squad this season included New Zealand greats Dan Carter and Brodie Retallick, as well as Australia stalwart Adam Ashley-Cooper.

The ambitious Japanese side are said to have next targeted Welsh centre Parkes.

(Image: Ben Evans/Huw Evans Agency)

It's unclear when Parkes' existing contract with the Scarlets, which he signed two years ago, runs out, or whether they have offered him an extension.

The Rugby Paper claim Parkes, who will be 33 in October, is in talks with Kobe about joining them in November despite the tantalising prospect of extending his Wales career and being picked by Warren Gatland for next year's Lions tour of South Africa.

Folau saga set for final twist?

Axed Australia full-back Israel Folau’s multi-million payout from Rugby Australia could reportedly take a major hit if the sport’s governing body is forced into insolvency.

Folau was sacked by RA last year over his homophobic social media posts, including one stating hell awaits homosexuals.

The two parties agreed to an out-of-court settlement in December after the Folau sued RA for religious discrimination.

While the terms weren’t made public, it’s understood to be around $3m, which is the remainder of his four year contract.

According to The Australian, the settlement is being paid off in instalments and those payments would be at risk should RA go under.

Should RA be forced to declare itself insolvent, Folau would become an unsecured creditor and depending on its assets, he’d likely be paid out only a few cents in the dollar.